The Critter Nerds Lab

Travis is a science nerd through and through—and proudly so. Carrying on the legacy of his father, the original “Critter Nerd” and former DNR Officer, Travis grew up with a deep respect for wildlife and a curiosity about how animals interact with the homes we build around them. A Ball State University graduate, Travis originally pursued a career in education, driven by his love of teaching, learning, and problem-solving. When the pandemic rerouted his path into exterior repair and property services, he found the perfect intersection of science, structure, and real-world problem solving. At Critter Nerds, Travis applies an educator’s mindset and a technician’s precision to wildlife control. He believes the best solutions start with understanding animal behavior, identifying how and why entry occurs, and designing repairs that prevent repeat issues. His nerdy attention to detail helps elevate Critter Nerds beyond “remove and repeat” toward smarter, longer-lasting solutions.

Ian is a people-first nerd—with over two decades of retail leadership shaping his passion for team building, customer experience, and doing things the “different” way. Looking for growth beyond the retail world, he transitioned into wildlife control, managing a branch of a national company and gaining hands-on field experience along the way. It didn’t take long for Ian to notice opportunities to challenge the corporate, one-size-fits-all approach. Teaming up with Travis, he left the corporate structure behind to help build something better—where Critter Nerds began to take shape. With years of experience in wildlife control, Ian is driven by exceptional service, environmentally responsible practices, and solutions that protect both homes and animals. He’s constantly pushing the company to think long-term—focusing on prevention, humane methods, and sustainable repairs—because the best fix is the one you don’t have to redo.

Affectionately known as “Jorn,” John has been a local business owner for years and knows firsthand how frustrating it can be when you need help—and no one shows up, calls back, or fixes the problem. After multiple failed attempts to find a responsive and effective nuisance wildlife control company for his own home, he realized there had to be a better way. While venting those frustrations to Ian over wings at a local Buffalo Wild Wings, the seed was planted for what would eventually become the Nerd Herd—and ultimately, Critter Nerds. John brings extensive residential experience, an unwavering curiosity, and a passion for doing things well. As the organizational nerd of the group, he’s often your first point of contact and the reason the team is exactly where they’re supposed to be, when they’re supposed to be there. His systems-driven mindset keeps Critter Nerds running smoothly behind the scenes, ensuring every job is scheduled, tracked, and followed through—because great service starts long before the truck pulls up.

Trey is pure energy in the best way possible. Known around the team as the “Energy Nerd,” he has an uncanny ability to read people, situations, and environments, bringing the right vibe wherever it’s needed most. His primary motivation is helping people and making a positive impact, whether that means calming a stressed homeowner, adapting on the fly in the field, or keeping the team moving forward with focus and momentum. Trey understands that wildlife control isn’t just about animals and repairs — it’s about people, trust, and communication. At Critter Nerds, Trey’s energy helps turn stressful situations into positive experiences. His people-first mindset, situational awareness, and genuine care for others make him a key part of delivering the high-level service and human connection that set Critter Nerds apart.